Article Details - Overview
Case Studies in Colorectal Cancer Vol. 4, No. 1
Release Date: July 16, 2008
Expiration Date: July 15, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Axel Grothey; Joleen Turja
Overview and Purpose
While the addition of an antiangiogenic agent to either first- or second-line chemotherapy is superior to chemotherapy alone in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, no data exist on the effects of long-term administration of biologic therapy or of continuing the same drug beyond first progression. Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor antibody as maintenance therapy might potentially extend time to treatment failure based on the observation that its prolonged use has not been associated with increased risk of serious adverse side effects. In addition, variations in the timing of cytotoxic chemotherapy, such as continuous or intermittent administration, have been investigated in an attempt to improve survival results while minimizing dose-limiting neurotoxicities. Several recently reported studies have suggested that intermittent dosing of platinum-based cytotoxic regimens is safe, reduces toxicity, and can potentially improve progression-free and overall survival.
The purpose of this activity is to assess the extended use of cytotoxic chemotherapy combined with an antiangiogenic biologic agent beyond standard first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer in the context of an individual case study.
Target Audience
This publication is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with colorectal cancer. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Evaluate the benefits of chemotherapy holidays or maintenance chemotherapy in extending treatment duration and survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer
- Compare survival benefit of continuing antiangiogenic therapy beyond tumor progression to that of standard chemotherapy alone in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer
- List common adverse events associated with antiangiogenic therapy
- Assess the safety impact of continued or extended antiangiogenic therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer Target Audience
Instructions for Participation
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
You will be asked to login
or create an account.